The Romanesco artichoke variety is widely considered among the best. Its shape, size and almost round flower head make it the ideal artichoke to be stuffed. It’s mainly grown on the coast north of Rome near Ladispoli and Cerveteri, and used in kitchens around the world. It derives from the castellammare and campagnano cultivars and produced in the provinces of Rome, Viterbo and Latina.

The leaves are compact, green with purple streaks and, unlike other varieties, don’t have thorns; Carciofo Romanesco is only found in spring, from March to May. Recently, the ‘Carciofo Romanesco del Lazio’ has obtained the Protected Geographical Indication (IGP).